CIRS Certification Program FAQs

While the Internet Research (or web search) work has been going on for many years, an “Internet Research Specialist” (also Web Researcher, Online Researcher) is considered a fairly new occupation that has to make its way into formal job description today. Because of its newness, there is no other structured curriculum known to us that focus on educating and training Internet research professional. We have created the very first and only formal education program and certification (CIRS) or “Certified Internet Research Specialist” that signifies expert levels of using the Internet for search and research.

The Association's Education System is a combination of Teaching Programs for Knowledge Professionals and those Information users that use the Internet as a preferred tool for their research.

Our certifications objective is to educate and train online researchers that now form a significantly large group of people involved in online research work. In the absence of any other formal training in this area of expertise, we are the first and only association that meets these challenges by offering first of its kind certification in the area of Internet Research, the CIRS™ (Certified Internet Research Specialists). The AOFIRS also offers short courses with certificates of course completion or COP (Certificate of Proficiency).

1. Professional Certification Program Certified Internet Research Specialist [CIRS™]
2. Certification Program for Skill Development - Web Search Methods & Techniques - Certificate of Proficiency [COP]
3. Certification Program for Skill Development - Online Investigative Research - Certificate of Proficiency [COP]

• Address the dire need for a well-structured and uniform education credential for the job description of “Internet Research Specialists.”
• Promote awareness of the online researcher as a profession that requires specialized skills.
• Enhance the credibility, transparency, and accountability of the Internet Researchers.
• Maintain and regulate the professional standards of trade globally.
• Deliver constant knowledge upgrades for the Certified Online Researchers through continued professional education (CPE) in this dynamic information overload era.
• Assist in developing educated and well informed online researchers.
• Develop an online professional researcher’s community.
• Develop the confidence of the employers, recruiters, and contractors when hiring or engaging.
• Enhances the status of Internet Research Specialists to speak for Online Research Professionals globally.
• Develop a sense of pride for the professionals through the designation of CIRS and affiliation with The AOFIRS as their representative professional body.

A Certified Internet Research Specialist, also known as CIRS™, is a designation bestowed by the Association of Internet Research Specialists (AOFIRS) to individuals using the Internet as a primary tool for research.

• The Association is a non-profit professional body registered in the province of Ontario, Canada. The Association is a self-regulatory Association formed under the Charter of Associations granted by the Government of Canada. The Association works primarily for the benefits of its members and promotes profession through recognition, education, and certification.
• We are the first and foremost professional association to recognize that a Professional Internet Research is an upcoming profession and it requires specialized skills and therefore deserves a proper job description. In lieu of this recognition, The Association has developed a well-structured course and offer a formal certification CIRS.
• The Association operates through its competent board members, industry advisory council members and is supported by its registered members that are industry professionals. As such the Association feels competent to confer such education programs, certifications and continuing professional education programs to promote and facilitate the newly emerged profession.
• Obtaining the CIRS - Certified Internet Research Specialist credential is optional, and the Association of Internet Research Specialists confers such certification solely for the purposes stated above in Q1. Those persons or organizations that choose to include the CIRS Certification as a condition of employment or advancement do so of their own volition. Such persons or organizations must determine for themselves whether the use of such a certification process, including its eligibility and re-certification requirements, either alone or coupled with any other requirements imposed by such persons or entities, meets their respective needs and complies with any laws applicable to them.

• With the exception of librarians, there is no other focused group of researchers that can claim to have formal knowledge of the subject of internet research. An Internet researcher is typically expected to demonstrate that one is capable of finding accurate information, on time and in a useful format using the internet.
• While there is no specific licensure required for this type of work, many people take classes in finding reference sources, database research, data mining, web analytics and research marketing intelligence, Etc. These may be of use in developing professional competencies and marketing themselves to potential employers and clients. You may also find that taking courses provided by vendors of proprietary databases and research tools to be very helpful.
• Several colleges and universities may offer degrees and certificate programs in library science or competitive intelligence that may provide you with training in using Internet-based resources. Holding an educational credential in such a program may also make it easier for you to become an Internet researcher, given that employers or prospective clients may perceive you to have greater expertise than self-taught researchers. If going back to school is not an option for you, you may still want to look into the short-term training program in Internet research skills such as a “Certified Internet Research Specialist”.
• To further develop the career as CIRS, one may wish to consider specializing in doing research in a specific subject area or areas. CIRS can begin with a subject with which they already have a great deal of familiarity. For example, you may wish to offer your services in researching topics that you studied in school or that you have dealt with on a regular basis in your employment or as part of a hobby or long-term interest. The stronger your vocabulary in a subject area, the better your research will be.
• Many companies and individuals rely on research to effectively do business or make important decisions. In some cases, companies and individuals may hire an Internet researcher to do their research for them. One of the most significant challenges of performing this kind of research is that it is difficult to target accurate information amongst numerous sources available online, using basic internet research tools.
• If you become a “Certified Internet Research Specialist” you will be expected to have the ability to this knowledge efficiently.

Generally, researchers are categorized based on the type of research they do and the services offered by them. One does not have to be labelled as a professional researcher but the fact is that we all need to do the search on the Internet for fast on time information when we need it. As an example following environments and professions need to do online research all the time:

• The CIRS syllabus is prepared by the our “Education Committee.” The syllabus is designed to ensure that the members are well trained to meet the expectations and the standards of the industry. The course is prepared within the framework of standard industry expectations and to meet the main objectives and policies of the Association.
• The our Board of Directors approve the courses and ensure compliance to the objectives and industry expectations through a review process.
• The syllabus is constantly evolving because of the dynamic nature of the Internets and with that, its various tools and digital archiving methods. The Association announces changes to the syllabus quarterly. The syllabus and course details are part of the CIRS Training Manual that is digitally published as of spring, summer, fall, and winter editions. Details of the syllabus are attached as an annexure.

Download CIRS Syllabus

"NO DEGREE REQUIRED"

• High-Level Professional Recognition and Members Forum Participation
• Opportunity for Joining The Association Board & Committees
• Continued Professional Education (CPE)
• Preferred Business & Job Opportunity
• Discounted Price for Events, seminars, Conferences & Webinars
• High-Level Professional Recognition and Members Forum Participation
• Become part of the exclusive CIRS Certified Member Directory.
• Use of CERTIFICATION LOGO.
• Learn more about benefits

• The registration for the CIRS Certification exam is done online through our website.
• Buy exam from E-Shop

CIRS Certification Exam Fee is the US $100 [One-time] for up to 3 attempts.

Include:

• 3 Examination Attempt
• Original CIRS Certificate of Proficiency Digital Download
• Electronic-Marks Sheet

[Digital Certificate is FREE - Hard Copy of Certificate requires issuance and postage charges]

There are altogether four modules in CIRS certification course. Each module has multiple sections.

The entire examination is structured according to the international standards practiced by most accredited online education institutions. We have made an extraordinary effort to engage the latest technology to conduct these exams with the latest anti-plagiarism methods.

The Exam Consists of Four Parts:

Module          Topics                                              *Weight-ages

CIRS-01  Webpages, Search Engine Indexing & Query Foundations     15%
CIRS-02  Web Search Techniques & Online Research Methods     40%
CIRS-03  The Business of Online Research           15%
CIRS-04  The Internet Law & Ethics                     15%

*Weightage signifies the overall importance of the topics – factors considered in its calculations include

1. Relevance to the CIRS course, Significance attributed to
2. The complexity of learning,
3. Industry trend and industry demand attached.

Exam Duration, Questions, and Grading

Quick Chart:

• Examination Duration:  90 Minutes (1.5 Hrs)
• Breaks in Between Exams:  No
• Total Number of Questions:  90
• Questions in Each Module Examined:   Variable
• Question Types:   Multiple Choices, True/False, Fill in, Best Match
• Complete All Modules:   Yes
• Minimum Passing Marks Required in All Module:   No
• Overall Passing Marks Required (PASS):   70%
• Re-attempt Allowed:  Yes (Within 24 Hrs. After payment)
• Restriction on Number of Re-attempts:   No
• Grading and Results:   Immediate
• Grade Sheet Availability:   Immediate
• Grading Done By:   Automated (generated by the software)

CIRS Examination Rules

Rules Summary:

• Agree to the terms and policies of the examination.
• Finish all 4 modules at one time.
• Allowed to go back and review answers in all modules.
• Allowed to go forward to the next question without answering the current.
• Answer all questions.
• No extra time is given to finish the test.
• In case the examination session breaks for reasons beyond the acceptable norms, the member will have to notify the examiner and seek permission to continue the exam from where it got interrupted.
• Once barred from the examination due to the violation of terms and policies of the examination or membership agreements the member will have to file an appeal addressed to the “Examination Board” to request restoration of status and allowing re-examination.

Antiplagiarism Policy

The exam is conducted under strict anti-plagiarism provisions that are implemented throughout the examination session. 

Preparing for the Exam

Estimated Effort: 8-12 hours per week over 6 weeks

The CIRS Candidates are evaluated on their relevant knowledge gained through course workbook (CIRS Training Manual) and Practice Exams. The exam consists of 4 parts. Each part will have a traditional multiple choice, true/false and multiple answer examination. The multiple choice exam consists of questions randomly pulled from a master list of questions. The certification candidate has 90 minutes to complete the exam. The exam is available through online access 24x7 anywhere in the world.

The CIRS certification program requires a good preparation because of the extensiveness of the course material and because of the way these exams are conducted and proctored.

The testing platform is inherently plagiarism proof and online proctored so there is no chance of getting any outside assistance or using the self-help notes during the exam. The questions are timed and you will have to answer each question quickly.

Preparing for the exams requires a disciplined approach to commit time and execute exam preparation strategy. Here are some suggestions to go by:

• Download the latest version of the CIRS Examination Manual and review the entire content of the manual carefully. The manual should be the focal point of your preparation. It is the core document used as the basis for each examination and a guideline for writing the examination.
• The manual is designed for self-paced learning in easy English/French with practice exercises. These questions are very similar in both format and type to the actual CIRS Examinations.
•  Also, make sure you are familiar with all of the acronyms used on the examinations. A glossary of terms and important definitions are also included in the manual.
• The manual is divided into four modules and each module has separate sections/headings. The manual is designed to manage the flow of information in the sequence of modules and the headings within. It is strongly recommended that the user follow them in the same sequence.
• As in any professional exams, CIRS preparation requires planning in terms of time required and practice. A good self-study plan demands discipline and commitment. The best study plan is the one that you can follow.
• Review the CIRS examinations content outlines, which list the main and subtopics covered in each examination.

Some candidates find the study guide to be sufficient in their preparation, while, some individuals may need to go beyond the study guides and review additional materials. Assess your ability and understand there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to studying for the CIRS Examinations.

• Candidates need to consider their learning preferences, prior knowledge, experience, time and budget in determining the best way to prepare.
• Request a mentor if you need further guidance. Email examiner@aofirs.org.
• Attempt sample examination questions on our website. These questions are frequently updated for test practice.

• Two live sessions have also been planned each month to address student issues. These are available per schedule (to be announced each month) - Your instructor(s) will come online to deliver mini-lecture(s), provide clarifications on assignments, and to answer your questions. Alternatively, there are two options available for members that need additional learning assistance:

  Option 1

  Education through one on one correspondence via a mix of Email Exchange and Live Chat.

  This is a service that can be bought through a voucher. It will give you four hours’ sessions for $100. The voucher can be applied anytime and the time utilized is deducted from the voucher purchased.

  Option 2

  Take online classes available separately for each module.

  This option is available through more structured online classes to be announced soon. The cost and other details related to these sessions are not available until the date of release of this document.

The exam consists of four parts. Each part will have a traditional multiple choice, true/false and multiple answer examination. The multiple choice exam consists of questions randomly pulled from a master list of questions. The certification candidate has 1 hours to complete the exam. The exam is available through online access 24x7 anywhere in the world. You will be provided The Association exam preparation workbook.

The exam is machine graded by the Examinator application using API calls. You'll receive only a Pass or Fail status within a couple of minutes of submitting the exam/link for grading.

You don't have to start your exam immediately. You have 30 days from the time the invitation email is sent to complete the exam. Once you start the exam, you must complete it in 1 hour.

You'll receive a pass or fail result within a few minutes of submitting your exam.

If you fail the exam you'll see an onscreen notification and, based on the results of your exam, you'll receive an email also. The exam re-takes are allowed up to Max 3 attempts in 90 days. There is no additional cost attached to the exam.

All Associate Members in good standing that have passed the CIRS Examination will gain the designation of “Certified Internet Research Specialists” and you can download Digital copy of your Certificate immediately after passing the exam.

1. The examination has not indicated any RED FLAGS in contravention of the examination terms and policy within which the exam was taken.
2. The member has not been barred or blacklisted in violation of any membership code of conduct and other terms and policies of the Association.

The ORIGINAL certificate will be mailed to the mailing address provided by the member. If one should need an expedited mailing service then, we will arrange that service based on the availability of an extra charge. Contact examiner@aofirs.org for the request.

If you lose connectivity or if you're logged out of the exam session for any reason, just log back in and continue; no work is lost. The exam clock will continue to the countdown. Your exam won't pause if you lose connectivity. We recommend taking the exam only where you have stable internet connectivity.

Once you have passed the CIRS Examination, you will gain the designation of “Certified Internet Research Specialist” and you can download Digital copy of your Certificate immediately from your “Members Area” or “Store Control Panel.”

1. The examination has not indicated any RED FLAGS in contravention of the examination terms and policy within which the exam was taken.
2. The financial transaction for the examination fee has passed through the bank accounts successfully.
3. The member has not been barred or blacklisted in violation of any membership code of conduct and other terms and policies of the Association.

The ORIGINAL certificate will be mailed to the mailing address provided by the member. If one should need an expedited mailing service then we will arrange that service based on the availability of an extra charge. Contact examiner@aofirs.org for the request.

The CIRS Certificate is valid for 24 Months unless the Certified Members give a CPE Examination within 30 days prior to the expiry of their issuance of the certificate. Right now the CPE exam is free of cost.

On renewal, the certificate gets revalidated to be used as a VALID Certificate.

If you encountered an issue during registration, please contact at +1 (905)-488-0753. For test takers outside of the United States and Canada, you may use online support chat. When your exam link is ready, or while taking an exam, you can use email to contact support@aofirs.org Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time (PT).

• Association of Internet Research Specialists membership highlights your recognizing that Internet Research is an acquired skill when performing serious research. For many, that are already in the field of Knowledge Management, Information Analysis and Professional Research, their membership shows a higher level of dedication towards improving on Digital Media Research Skills.
• Membership comes with many benefits. Members Discounts on E-Shop Products, Education Material, Webinars, Seminars, Live Classes, Examination Vouchers, you will have full access to our Knowledge Base that increases your subject knowledge of Internet Search Techniques, Search Engines Technology and Internet Laws. A member can view, submit and share articles, links, and video files. A member's forum serves to share and exchange information, ideas, solve industry problems and highlight industry issues.  
• If you recognize the complexities of finding just the right information with Internet Search and like to learn more about the subject in a structured manner, then, your membership is just the right step to get you going. 

1. The Association membership comes with many benefits. Members Discounts on E-Shop Products, Education Material, Webinars, Seminars, Live Classes, Examination Vouchers, you will have full access to The Association Knowledge Base that increases your subject knowledge of Internet Search Techniques, Search Engines Technology and Internet Laws. A member can view, submit and share articles, links, and video files.
2. Connect with fellow members instantly - Access to forums, member to member chats (MMC), and full access to member’s directory with your name included.
3. Participate in our Knowledge Share Network - Full access and active participation in forums, articles, newsletter archives, and search links submissions.
4. Have your say in Association policy matters & professional committees. Members will have rights through the special resolution by the board and per bye-laws of the association to participate in association matters.
5. Active participation in all memberships- Members can exchange ideas, thoughts, point out issues share and gain knowledge and request peer assistance. 
6. Exclusive job referrals privileges
7. Professional recognition - Your membership to potential highlights professional dedication employers, clients and others, giving you an edge in the professionals market.
8. Become part of the Association Members Directory – Allows members to present themselves in Members Directory that is searchable by the outsiders looking for professions regulated members.
9. Opportunity to give CIRS Exam – Only Associate Members are allowed to attempt the CIRS Certification Exam.
10. Exclusive use of our LOGO – Associate Members can use official LOGOS of the Association on their business cards, websites, and official documents. 

Membership Fees

Associate Membership

One-Time Registration Fee... $120

Membership Bundle Includes:

• Access to the AOFIRS member’s directory
• Uninterrupted access to knowledge network articles, research papers, directories, and forum
• Members are eligible for free webinar registration (fair-use policy applies)
• Members discounts up to 30% for Live Online Training Classes (fair-use policy applies)
• Rapid Learning Bootcamp gives Members up to 50% discounts (fair-use policy applies)
• Your name added to the member's directory.
• Participate in our Virtual Forum with login
• Volunteering opportunities for members only with added advantages
• Have your say in associations policy matters & professional committees upon invitation

Renewal of Associate Membership

Membership Renewal Fee (Annual)...................... $120

Certified Membership

Certified Membership Fee ................................. FREE

Certified Membership Renewal Fee .....................$120

Benefits:

• Discounts on E-Shop and Education Material
• Discounts for Live Classes, Webinars and Boot Camps
• Free Access to Education & Reference Material
• Suggestions for Board, Committees, Discussions and Other Professional Matters
• Unrestricted Knowledge Share & Contribution
• Your name added to the member's directory
• Inclusion in Members Official Directory
• Authorized Use of Association Prestigious Logo Expressing Professional Affiliation
• Free Exposure of Members List to Potential Job/Contract Opportuntities
• Membership Forum Participation

Applying for Associate Membership is simple. An application form from Members navigation page has a link to “Apply Now" Fill in an online application and make payment. However, please note that any false information on the application will result in disqualification and the fee will be confiscated. The user may file an appeal to the board for reinstatement.

Membership is cancelled in the following ways:

• Sending an email requesting cancellation of the membership prior to renewal due date by sending an email request to memberships@aofirs.org
• By lapsing renewal due date without paying annual dues.
• Where the Association management reviews complain against the member for misconduct or breaches any of the policies for use of membership facilities, breach of the code of conduct of members.
• Any professional misconduct is proven by the complainant.
• The serious legal offence has proven in the court of law
• Breach of “Association Bye-Laws” particularly pertaining to the memberships.
• Gross professional misconduct.

There is no refund once the membership dues are paid.

There is no trial membership offered currently.

These will be offered as and when available and/or announced by the The Association Board.

A Certified Member

A “Certified Membership” is an “Automatic Membership” i.e., when an Associate Member passes the CIRS Certification Examination he/she can upgrade his/her membership from "Members Area" free of cost to Certified Membership. There is No Fee for this upgraded membership status.

The Certified Membership is mainly considered a prestigious membership and signifies a true professional status in the online research industry. The benefits of the membership are the same as that of Associate Member with Added Benefits described below:

• All the benefits of Associate Membership
• Greater Professional Recognition
• Preferred "Work References"
• Participation in Special committees
• Direct reach to Board of Directors
• Opportunity to work on The Association Research Projects
• Become part of the exclusive CIRS Certified Member Directory.
• Use of Association CERTIFICATION LOGO.

Learn More...